May 17
2006

And here's Marvel's solicitation info for that issue (in invisible text if you don't want to be spoiled).

ASTONISHING X-MEN #16

Written by Joss Whedon, pencils and cover by John Cassaday.

"Torn," part 4 of 6. The X-Men have been ripped apart and mentally destroyed. Only one remains standing. But with the combined power of the Hellfire Club standing in their way, what chance do they have?

I am also very pleased with this series and the way it has blossomed. However, I doub't anyone would be intimidated by our little Shadowcat...especially The White Queen. If Emma Frost wanted it so, Kitty could spend the next 20 years of her life thinking she is a ferret.

I am guessing that in a very Whedonesque (yeah, I actually said it) move, Joss will pit Kitty against Emma and the rest of the Hellfire gang in a no-win situation. And she will lose. I can totally picture the last panel of the issue taking place graveside, "she saved the world alot"

It looks like Kitty is about to open a giant, industrial sized can of whupass! Which is just awsome. You know Whedon's fond of her, obviously, and it looks like she's going to stand in the spot light again.

I'm glad that its not Wolverine saving the day, but little Kitty Pryde.